Ten Entertainment Group, the bowling alley operator, saw a 9.4% increase in like-for-like food sales in the six months to 1 July.
The group said the boost had been supported by a focus on providing customers with easy ordering while they bowl via the I-Serve lane ordering. I-Serve represents 30% of all food and drink orders. During the second half the group plans to trial an enhanced food offer, focused around items such as sharing platters.
During the period, total sales grew 7.7% to £37.8m with like-for-like sales growth of 3.1%, driven by both increased spend per head and footfall.
In the second half of the year the group reported turbulent trade due to the heatwave but said like-for-like sales growth had returned in August, with an increase of 9.8%. Year to date like-for-like sales growth to week 35 is now at 0.8%.
The group acquired four sites during the period and completed full refurbishments completed at two sites, with brand relaunches planned for the four acquired sites during H2.
Chairman Nick Basing said: “Despite the extraordinary weather conditions in the period, I am delighted the business delivered solid like-for-like sales growth in the first half, and now remains in positive territory for the year to date. More importantly, the business continues to invest to strengthen its quality of earnings from the current estate and add high quality additions.
“I look forward to seeing the business continue to finish the year strongly.”
